What every woman should know about menorrhagia, its symptoms and treatment

A menstrual period is hardly a pleasant experience for most women. With pre-menstrual syndrome, cramps and bloating, it sucks out a lot of energy from most women. Menorrhagia,  or heavy menstrual bleeding, during which a lot more blood than a typical menstruation is lost, is an extreme version of this experience.

While a normal period lasts 3 to 4 days and involves losing about 30 to 50 millilitres of blood, those experiencing menorrhagia lose about 80 mL of blood, and the bleeding lasts for more than 7 days.

It can affect anyone, but is commonly seen in those between 30 and 50 years, according to Medical News Today. What causes it? Also, what are its symptoms and treatments?

What causes menorrhagia?
The Johns Hopkins Medicine says the heavy bleeding in menorrhagia is often the result of hormonal fluctuations, polyps or fibroids, adenomyosis and certain inherited bleeding issues. At times, certain blood thinners or drugs can also cause menorrhagia. 

What are the signs of menorrhagia?
a) Having to change pads more than once every hour, back to back.
b) Having to change pads in the middle of the night.
c) Periods that are longer than 7 days.
d) Inability to lead a normal life during the bleeding days.
e) Needing to wear multiple pads at a time. 

How to treat menorrhagia?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, menorrhagia can be treated with surgeries, therapies and medications, depending on what is causing the condition, the patient's health and the need for pregnancy. Other conditions like cancer, thyroid issues, sexually transmitted diseases and infections can also cause heavy period bleeding.